During the month of May we explored ways to deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. This is an action plan to accompany our prayer from Ephesians 3:14-19 where we are asking God to deepen our relationship with Him. We have explored John 15 where we learned a beginning step for us is to “hang out” with Jesus through Corporate Worship, Prayer, and Bible Study. The question posed throughout the series is, “What is your action plan to develop your relationship with him?”. Growing in our faith does not happen through osmosis. I hope and pray that you have taken up this challenge. Individually and corporately we want to look and act more like Jesus on a daily basis.

Another aspect of our growth is how we love God. Jesus says in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give your whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other.”

God’s Word never returns void. As men and women of faith it must be applied. This is seen by the way we live out our lives with one another. During the months of June and July we are going to explore living the life of love as Christ instructs us. As we grow in this area of our faith journey I want to make sure you put two weekends on your calendar.

The first weekend is June 25 and 26 for our church reunion. Saturday night there will be a picnic in the park and on Sunday, Worship and Lunch. During worship we will have special music ministry, a time of sharing and remembering, and a challenge for the future mission of FPC. You will hear more from me during the month of June to prepare for worship on the 26th.
The second weekend to note is Friday, July 22 for our first retreat that will take place at the 4 R’s  retreat center. We will be working on ways to experience more of the presence and power of God in our everyday life. It will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Friday night and conclude at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday. The cost is $70 for the weekend (food will be a cooperative effort). The retreat will have teaching time, time for fellowship and yes time to fish, swim, hike, or find a corner and read a book. This retreat is for adults only. Next year we will plan an all church retreat. Sign up begins on May 29-June 26. Scholarships are available upon request and a deposit of $35 is requested when you register.
I look forward to these two months of summer as we apply God’s Word to our lives.
Love in Christ,
Ilona